The Farm and Its History
Crooked Pines Farm is a 20-acre historic property nestled in the rolling hills of western Massachusetts. Originally established in 1742 as a small family homestead, the farm has evolved over generations to become a beloved community hub, known for its vibrant seasonal events, picturesque natural landscapes, and dedication to sustainable agricultural practices.
In the 1980s, the farm underwent a major transformation when it was purchased by the current owners, the Westwood family. Determined to honor the property’s rich history while also adapting to modern needs, the Westwoods embarked on a mission to restore the aging farmhouse, rebuild deteriorating outbuildings, and introduce new educational programs centered around farm nature exploration and hands-on learning for local children.
Today, Crooked Pines Farm stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of rural America, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with the land, discover the joys of gardening, and immerse themselves in the rhythms of a thriving, multigenerational farming community.
Harvest Moon Celebration
One of the farm’s most anticipated annual events is the Harvest Moon Barn Dance and Celebration, held each September around the autumnal equinox. This festival-like gathering transforms the property into a vibrant hub of activity, drawing in families, food enthusiasts, and nature lovers from near and far.
The Barn Dance
The centerpiece of the event is the Harvest Moon Barn Dance, held in the farm’s historic 1860s-era dairy barn. As the sun sets, the structure’s weathered wooden beams and lofty ceilings come alive with the rhythmic stomping of boots, the lively strumming of fiddles and banjos, and the joyful laughter of dancers young and old.
Seasoned local square dance callers guide participants through a series of traditional moves, weaving intricate patterns across the barn floor. Onlookers clap along to the music, occasionally joining in when the mood strikes. Between sets, guests refuel with hot apple cider, freshly baked pies, and other seasonal treats crafted from the farm’s homegrown produce.
Festive Activities
Beyond the barn dance, the Harvest Moon Celebration offers a wealth of other engaging activities for all ages. Visitors can embark on guided nature trails, exploring the property’s diverse ecosystems and spotting native wildlife along the way. Children delight in hands-on educational stations, learning about topics like companion planting, pollinator gardens, and the life cycle of a pumpkin.
In the barnyard, guests can meet the farm’s friendly animals—from fluffy angora goats toheritage breed chickens—and even try their hand at simple farm chores like gathering eggs or brushing the donkeys. Meanwhile, the Farm-to-Table Tent showcases seasonal recipes and cooking demonstrations, inspiring attendees to recreate the farm’s flavors in their own kitchens.
For those seeking a more creative outlet, the DIY Crafts Tent provides materials and guidance for making autumnal decorations, such as dried flower wreaths or soy-based candle-making. Throughout the event, costumed performers roam the grounds, leading family fun activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin bowling.
Seasonal Traditions
At the heart of the Harvest Moon Celebration lies a deep reverence for the changing seasons and the cyclical rhythms of farm life. As the sun dips below the horizon, attendees gather around a towering bonfire, singing traditional harvest songs and sharing stories of past celebrations.
Many families make an annual tradition of attending the event, using it as an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, forge new connections within the community, and cultivate a greater appreciation for the natural world. The festival’s emphasis on seasonal events and farm life chronicles allows visitors to step back from the hectic pace of modern life and embrace the simple joys of autumn on the land.
Attendees and Participants
The Harvest Moon Celebration draws a diverse crowd, attracting both longtime locals and curious visitors from across the region. Multigenerational families, school groups, and community organizations all come together to partake in the festivities, creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
Local Community Members
For many Crooked Pines Farm regulars, the Harvest Moon event is a much-anticipated annual reunion, a chance to reconnect with neighbors, swap stories, and celebrate the fruits of their shared labor. Local farmers, gardeners, and DIY craftspeople eagerly await the opportunity to showcase their wares, from freshly harvested produce to handmade herbal remedies and artisanal preserves.
The event also serves as a platform for the farm’s extensive network of educational partners, including teachers, naturalists, and youth program coordinators. These collaborators lead hands-on workshops, lead interactive nature exploration activities, and share their expertise on topics ranging from sustainable agriculture to wildlife conservation.
Visitors and Guests
In addition to the loyal community members, the Harvest Moon Celebration also attracts curious visitors from near and far. Families with young children are drawn to the farm’s engaging, educational activities, while food enthusiasts delight in the abundance of farm-to-table recipes and bountiful produce samples.
Nature lovers, too, flock to the event, eager to immerse themselves in the farm’s diverse habitats and observe the seasonal changes unfolding across the landscape. Hikers, birders, and amateur botanists all find ample opportunity to explore the property’s nature trails and discover hidden pockets of biodiversity.
Event Organization and Planning
Behind the scenes of the Harvest Moon Celebration lies a dedicated team of Crooked Pines Farm staff, volunteers, and community partners who work tirelessly to bring the event to life. Their meticulous planning and coordination ensure that each year’s celebration runs seamlessly, offering attendees a truly memorable experience.
Venue Preparation
In the weeks leading up to the event, the farm’s team transforms the property, meticulously preparing the barn, trails, and outdoor spaces to welcome the influx of guests. Weathered wooden floors are scrubbed and polished, and the historic structure is adorned with twinkling lights, fragrant autumn garlands, and other festive décor.
Across the grounds, the team establishes educational stations, craft-making areas, and food service stations, ensuring that each activity and attraction is strategically positioned for maximum enjoyment. Signage, parking coordination, and accessibility measures are also carefully considered to create a smooth, welcoming environment for all.
Programming and Entertainment
The event’s diverse programming is carefully curated to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. In addition to the signature barn dance, the team books a lineup of talented local musicians, storytellers, and theatrical performers to enliven the atmosphere throughout the day.
Hands-on educational workshops are scheduled at regular intervals, allowing guests to dive deeper into topics like pollinator gardening, sustainable living, and traditional homesteading skills. The Farm-to-Table Tent and DIY Crafts Tent are thoughtfully stocked with supplies and led by knowledgeable instructors, ensuring that participants leave with newfound skills and inspiration.
Ultimately, the Harvest Moon Celebration is a testament to the dedication and community spirit that lies at the heart of Crooked Pines Farm. By blending time-honored traditions with innovative, family-friendly programming, the event invites visitors to step into the rhythms of farm life, cultivating a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the value of local, sustainable agriculture.
